Historic house threatened in Waverly

Posted:
Thursday, January 8, 2009 6:34 PM EST

WAVERLY (KWWL) -- One Waverly house has withstood hundreds of harsh Iowa winters, steamy summers and more than a hand full of floods. But, today it's being threatened by county and federal officials. The Ira Sturdevant home has stood near the Cedar River since 1855, but now FEMA demolition and a sheriff's sale threaten the house.

The family and city officials are trying to preserve the house as a state historical site.

"it's another reason that we could create that would draw people to waverly," said Waverly City council member Duane Liddle. "Just to come and enjoy themselves."

The sheriff's sale is scheduled for january 20th. The Sturdevants are discussing their options with local and state officials and preservationists.